Nederland gets crafty with new art event

Jose D. Enriquez II, Beaumont Enterprise

By Jose D. Enriquez III

Published 10:59 am, Monday, April 1, 2013

Kim Williams, a retired Nederland theater teacher, finds creative release by taking antiqued items like broaches and crafts them into new repurposed accessories. She is one of many who will be showcasing their talents at the first Art in the Park in Nederland.
Photo: Jose D. Enriquez III

Kim Williams, a retired Nederland theater teacher, finds creative...

Kim Williams, a retired Nederland theater teacher, finds creative release by taking antiqued items like broaches and crafts them into new repurposed accessories. She is one of many who will be showcasing their talents at the first Art in the Park in Nederland.
Photo: Jose D. Enriquez III

Williams, who owns Historically Haute, finds her creative outlet by taking antiqued items like broaches, old photographs and love letters and turning them into repurposed jewelry.

"I started very slowly," Williams said. "[But] with some nudging from one of my sisters who said, 'oh, make me this or make me that' and some research, I've been able to launch a blog and etsy (account)."

Williams said local festivals and events are great because they help out local artists and keep out mass producers.

Nederland Parks Director Angela Fanette said Art in the Park has been something she's wanted to give life to for a few years now.

"We are trying to promote our community, and some of the local artists and talents," she said. "We have a 15-acre park, and it's spring and time to get outside and enjoy this weather."

Fanette said funds raised through the $10 booth registration and other fees will be put back into city programs.

"I think it's good," said Christopher Duque, Nederland city manager. "This is another step in the right direction for the community."

Fanette is planning to have anywhere from 35 to 45 vendors and artists present on the April 13 event at Doornbos Park.

"We have people who make their own soaps and candles," she said. "We want to highlight them. Some people will be selling their stuff and others will just be displaying."

Fanette says there will live music by local bands, Diversion and Notch, food, and even yoga.